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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers known for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Following this, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

Toni Braxton's Moving Performance

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her performance with a live band seemed rooted in the era of her greatest success.

Then, deep into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply emotional moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Power chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the audience's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their performance featured covers of inspirations, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

Towards the end, the concert embraced the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

While the evening's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the sense at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.